InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Long Lost.... ❯ Good Afternoon ( Chapter 11 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha, for if I did I would not be writing or reading fanfics about him. He'd be with me and we'd have... FUN. LoL. ^_^ He belongs to the oh so creative, Rumiko Takahashi.

A.N.: I am SOO sorry for how long it took me to update. I seriously don't know where the time went. Usually I only take about one month but for some reason, one month became two, and then three, and then almost four! All I can say is that I apologize for the long wait, I promise not to take so long next time, and that I hope there are still a few of you out there who will still read my story. It took me a while to finish this chapter actually, but I hope you guys like it. The song I'm using in this chapter is called "When You Love Someone" by Bryan Adams. It's a really pretty song so if you can, you should listen to it as you read the part it comes up in. And a little part from the song "L.O.V.E." is in this chappie also. And that one is by Nat King Cole. So, read, and hopefully, you guys still love me enough to review. ^_^ I don't own any of the songs either.


"Do you think she'll like the fruit basket we picked out?" Kagome anxiously asked.

"She'll love it." Inuyasha said, trying to soothe her nerves. He took one of her hands with his free one, and rubbed his thumb back and forth. He adjusted his hold on the said fruit basket in his other hand, so that he had a firmer grip.

"How do you know? I mean, I haven't spoken to her since we last came here, and..." Kagome trailed off.

Inuyasha stopped,, and turned to her. He gently placed the fruit basket on the sidewalk they were waking on, and took her face within his hands, cradling it. "Kagome. She's your mother, she loves you. Stop being nervous, and just relax."

"But, what if..."

"I love you."

Kagome's eyes softened. "I love you, too," she said, her nerves relaxing at his proclamation.

Inuyasha smiled. It felt so good to hear her say that, especially after that night they had had. It had been two days ago since then. The following morning, they had woken in each other's arms, and as soon as the sleep was wiped from their eyes, they smiled at each other. Then soon, the smile had turned into an all-out laugh. They had breakfast out on the patio that morning, and found themselves smiling at each other with adoring faces the entire day.

Inuyasha looked down into the deepest brown eyes he'd ever seen, and slowly leaned down. He kissed her softly, then pulled back after a second. "Relax. It'll all be fine. I'm here."

Kagome smiled up at him, and leaned up to kiss him once more. "Thank you."

Inuyasha nodded with a smile, then picked up the fruit basket once more. They were on the sidewalk, leading to the Higurashi shrine. He wrapped his other arm around Kagome, and proceeded walking again. Ten minutes later, they were standing in front of the front door of Kagome's house. After a knock or two, a woman in her early-forties answered the door. She was slim, and had soft black, hair that fell in short waves that barely graced her shoulders.

"Kagome?"

"Mama." Kagome said with a smile.

"Honey, what are you doing here? I wasn't expecting you. Well, come in." Kagome's mother said, enveloping Kagome in tight hug. "I missed you, darling."

"I've missed you too, mama. I have someone I think you'd like to see." Kagome said, after her mother released her.

Kagome's mother turned her head, finally noticing that there was someone standing slightly behind her daughter. Her eyes widened at the young man she saw. "Inuyasha? Inuyasha Takeishi? That famous singer that all the girls around town have been swooning over since his performance a few weeks ago?" She asked, with a growing smile.

Inuyasha chuckled. "Mrs. Higurashi, it's good to see you again."

Kagome's mother laughed. "How many times do I have to tell you Inuyasha, call me Aunt Nara. Now, give me a hug before I come over there."

Inuyasha smiled and complied with the older woman's demand.

When she let him go, he picked up the basket he had been holding. "We brought you a fruit basket, Aunt Nara."

Nara looked at him, then to her daughter, and smiled. "It's lovely. Let's go inside, and I'll cut some of that up for us, then we'll have a snack and catch up, hmm?" She led her daughter into the house with an arm around her shoulders. Kagome looked back at him, and smiled.

Inuyasha shook his head with a smile and followed suit.

Once inside, Nara instructed them to wait in the living room dismissing any offers to help, while she prepared some of the fruit. Kagome walked over to the couch and sat down. Inuyasha, on the other hand, started walking around the room, looking at all the pictures arranged here and there. He stopped at a picture of a slightly younger Kagome, sitting on a blanket in what looked like a park, candidly caught laughing. He smiled and reached out to touch the frame. "I like this picture."

"Hmm? Which one?" Kagome asked, from her position on the couch.

"The one with you laughing."

"Oh, that one." Kagome gave a slight laugh. "We went on a family picnic for my 18th birthday, that day. Souta did something funny, but I can't remember what it was now. I hadn't known my mom took a picture of me until after."

Inuyasha turned to look at her, and smiled at the soft expression on her face. He walked over to the couch, and sat down next to her. He took her hand in one of his and stared at her. "Your beautiful when you laugh."

Kagome looked at him with a twinkle in her eye. "Are you trying to get something from me?" She asked with a teasing smile.

Inuyasha laughed. "When I want something from you, trust me, you'll know."

Kagome laughed, and reached up with her free hand to push a stray silver tress behind his ear.

"Alright, the fruits all cut." A voice from the kitchen said. A minute later, Nara came walking into the living room with a tray in her hand that contained three drinks, small forks, and a platter of cut fruit. Both Kagome and Inuyasha rose to help her, but she shoo-ed them away. She put the tray down on the small rectangular table in front of them and sat in the recliner opposite of them.
When they were all eating, Nara spoke. "So, Kagome, how have you been, honey? I think I last spoke to you when you were in town for that promotional you were doing in town a month or so ago."

"I've been really good, mama. I've just been doing performances every other week, and recording new stuff. My CD should be coming out, really shortly." Kagome said, chewing on a piece of apple.

"Good, good. And you, Inuyasha?"

"Pretty much the same thing. We wrote a new song together just the other day for our partnership gig at the label." Inuyasha said, munching on a piece of pineapple.

Nara nodded.

"Where's grandpa and Souta, mama?" Kagome asked, putting her fork down and taking a sip of water.

"Oh, grandpa took Souta out with him to buy some new things for the shrine," Nara replied.

Kagome nodded, then placed her cup down on the table.

"So... What's the story behind you two being down here together? Another promo?" Nara asked.

Kagome shifted a little. "Not exactly..."

Inuyasha took the lead. "Things were just getting really hectic in Tokyo, and we both just thought that it'd be a great idea to get away for a little while. Take a breather."

"I see," Nara said, looking at Kagome.

Inuyasha looked from one Higurashi to the other, then stood up, sensing that the Kagome and her mother needed to talk. "Uh, I have to make a phone call. If you'll excuse me, ladies, I'll be right outside."

Kagome watched him go, until he was out of sight, then turned back to her mother.

"I won't ask you to explain everything to me, but it looks to me, that there's something going on between you and Inuyasha." Kagome's mother said after a few moments.

Kagome was so nervous. She wasn't sure how her mother would take the truth about her and Inuyasha... and Kouga for that matter.

Upon seeing her daughter squirm uncomfortably, Nara stood and walked over to sit beside her. She took one of Kagome's hand into both of hers and looked straight at her. "Kagome, honey... I will support you in all you do. And I know that when Inuyasha left all those year ago, that the following time after, was not a happy time for you."

When Kagome said nothing, and just stared down at her lap, Nara continued on. "I also know, that the reason you're engaged to Kouga is because he was there to help you in those hard times. And believe me, I will be forever grateful to him for helping my daughter in her time of need."

Kagome continued looking down and her mother gently lifted her face to look at her with kind eyes. "But, I know how you felt about Inuyasha, and that you don't necessarily feel that way for Kouga."

Kagome looked at her mother, and sighed. "I don't know what to do with Kouga anymore, mama. I'm so confused. When I'm with Inuyasha, I'm so happy, I just..."

Nara hugged her daughter. "Sweetie, if love were clear and clean-cut, there would be no pain and confusion."

"But Kouga, the engagement, his mother...." Kagome worriedly trailed off.

Nara pulled back from the embrace. "Kagome, do what you feel is right, in your heart of hearts. If your not happy with the decision you make now, then you won't be happy ten years from now. And I don't want that for you, dear."

Kagome stared at the understanding expression on her mother's face, and nodded. "Thanks, mama."

Nara leaned down and laid a gentle kiss on her daughter's fore-head. "What are mother's for?" She said with a smile.

Just then, a cough broke through the following silence. "I could sure eat another piece of fruit." Inuyasha loudly said, trying to smoothly let the women know he was coming back in, so as not to interrupt their talk.

"It's alright Inuyasha, you can come back in." Kagome said.

Nara stood and started to gather the fruit, tray, and cups. She walked up to where Inuyasha was standing just inside of the door and smiled at him. "I'll leave the fruit in the kitchen." And with that, she left. Inuyasha looked at Kagome and walked over to her. He sat down and threw an arm around her. "Talk, go well?"

"Uh huh. I forgot how understanding my mother was for a minute." Kagome said with a smile.

"I told ya."

Kagome smiled at him. "So, did you really call someone?"

"Yeah. I called Miroku. The guy left me like ten messages asking where I was since we left Tokyo, so I thought I should finally call him."

"What did he say?" Kagome asked.

"He said that everyone was having a field day when they couldn't find both me and you, and that we needed to get home soon." Inuyasha said, staring off at a wall.

"Is that all?" Kagome hesitantly asked.

Inuyasha looked at Kagome, and tightened his arm around her. "I think we need to go home, soon."

"What's wrong, what's been going on?" Kagome asked, starting to panic. Inuyasha was looking at her with such a serious expression.

"Nothing too bad, it's just... It'd be better if we just got home. That's all." Inuyasha said, going back to looking at something else.

Kagome put one her hands on his cheeks, and made him look at her. "Your not telling me something..."

Inuyasha relished in the feel of her hand on his face. He lifted one of his hands and placed it over the hand on his cheek. He moved his face into her hand, and laid a gentle kiss on the center of her palm.

"What is it?" Kagome said, staring at him intently.

He inhaled deeply and let his hand drop from it's place atop of hers. He looked at Kagome for a long while, then finally said, "It's time to face the music, Kags."


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"Do you have all your stuff packed?" Inuyasha asked, walking into her room. They were in his house, and they were leaving for Tokyo today. After leaving Kagome's mother's house the day before, they had went back to his place and started packing.

Kagome zipped her duffle bag up. "Yeah, just about," she sighed, then turned around to face him.

Inuyasha walked over to her, and wrapped his arms around her waist. "I know it's stressful right now. And that we're going to face a heck of a lot more shit when we get back to Tokyo. But, I'm here with you. I'm not leaving your side, okay?"

Kagome looked up and Inuyasha and gave him a soft smile. "I know."

Inuyasha smiled and leaned down to kiss her. After a minute or two, they finally pulled apart.

"Our train leaves in an hour..." Kagome breathed against his lips.

"Yeah..." Inuyasha whispered, trailing kisses down her throat.

"We should get going now..." Kagome softly said, running her hands through his soft, long hair.

"We should..." came Inuyasha's muffled reply. Just as he started leading her toward the bed, a voice broke through their heated reverie.

"Kids, are you two done packing? Your train leaves in an hour, and I want to give you both something before you go!" Izayoi's voice called up the stairs.

Inuyasha sighed. "Yes mom, we're done. We'll be down in a minute," he called. He looked at Kagome who was looking at him with a dazed smile gracing her lips. He sighed again, then took her hand. "Let's go."

Kagome hastily grabbed her duffle bag and followed after Inuyasha. She looked around the room one last time, as Inuyasha led her out, to make sure she hadn't forgotten anything.

Once downstairs, the pair saw Izayoi with a wrapped bundle in her arms. "It's a few of Inuyasha's and your favorite dishes Kagome. I thought you two might be able to eat it on the train. I'm sure when you get back to Tokyo, my Inu will be back on his all ramen diet. So I figured he should eat well before that," the older woman said with a smile.

"Hey!" Inuyasha exclaimed rather loudly.

"Yes, son?" Izayoi asked.

After a second of keeping a straight face on, Inuyasha finally broke out into a playful smile. "It's not a diet, it's a way of life."

Kagome rolled her eyes and smiled understandingly at Izayoi. "How you put it with him since the day he was born is a mystery to me."

"You weren't complaining about me a few nights ago, sweetie..." Inuyasha softly said with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Kagome narrowed her eyes at him and pulled away. "Well sweetie, I don't think there will be any more nights for me to complain since we won't be doing anything like that from this day forward," she said through gritted teeth.

Inuyasha paled. "I was only kidding! Come on Kags," he softly pleaded.

"Yeah? Well, I'm not." Kagome replied with a stern look on her face.

Inuyasha dropped his bags and went to woman who played in his dreams, momentarily forgetting that his mother was still in the room. He wrapped his arms around Kagome from the back and nuzzled her neck. "You know I love you, baby."

Kagome tried to resist the warmth in his strong arms around her, but it was a losing battle. his next action was her undoing.

"L is for the way you look at me..." Inuyasha softly sang, loud enough so that only she could hear what he was saying.

Kagome's annoyance dissolved, leaving in it's wake, something so heart-warming and old that it actually almost broke her heart at it's sheer sweetness.

"O is for the only one I see. V is very very extraordinary. E is even more than anyone that you adore and love... It's all that I can give to you."

Kagome turned around in Inuyasha's arms and looked into his smiling face as he continued to sing sweetly to her.

"Love is more than just a game for two."

Before Kagome knew what was going on Inuyasha was twirling her around and dancing with her as he sang.

Kagome giggled as Inuyasha twirled her away and back again.

"Two in love can make it. Take my heart but please don't break it."

Inuyasha dipped Kagome over the back of his left arm and leaned down as he softly sang the last words against her mouth.

"Love was made for me and you."

Kagome's heart was beating a mile a minute as Inuyasha finished. He smiled at her with adoring eyes before he leaned down that last inch and kissed her. He brought her up so that she was standing upright but continued kissing her as if he had the whole day to do so. Inuyasha brought one hand up to cradle Kagome's face and the other he wrapped around her waist. After what seemed like forever a sigh interrupted the couple.

They pulled apart to see Izayoi looking at them with a wistful smile. "My son has grown into such a sweet man..."

Inuyasha blushed a little and coughed. Kagome looked up at him and smiled. "Indeed he has."

Inuyasha shyly looked at Kagome, clearing his throat again. "We'd better get going, the train leaves soon."

Kagome nodded still smiling. "I didn't know you listened to old music."

"Feh."

Kagome shook her head with a smile and walked over to Izayoi and gave the older woman a hug. "Thank you...for everything."

"There's no need for any of that Kagome. Your practically like my daughter." Izayoi replied pulling away from the hug.

Kagome smiled. Inuyasha did the same and went to give his mother a big bear hug. "Love you mom, see you later."

"You take care of yourself Inu. Call me if you need anything. Don't work to hard. Eat healthy, and by healthy, I mean not only ramen, and take care of Kagome..." Izayoi trailed off with a small smile.

"Yeah, yeah, I know. Bye mom. I'll call you when we get back to Tokyo." Inuyasha said. He went back to where he had dropped his bags and went to the door with Kagome behind him. Once everything was settled in the car the pair gave one last wave to Izayoi, and were off.

"I'm going to miss her..." Kagome absently said looking out the car window as she gently rubbed her thumb over hers and Inuyasha's entwined hands.

Inuyasha looked at her. "We can always come back and visit, Kags..."

"I know... It's just that I haven't seen her in years and now that I have, I feel like I'm not going to see her for a long while like last time," Kagome said still gazing out the passenger side window.

Inuyasha looked at her again, and at the faraway expression that donned her face. Unsure of what to say, he simply raised their coupled hands and kissed the back of hers.

Kagome looked at him then, and softly smiled.

An hour later the two were settled on the train as they made their way back to Tokyo. Kagome rested her head on Inuyasha's shoulder as he rested his own head atop hers.

"What are we going to do when we get back?" Kagome softly asked.

"What we were doing before we left, except for one thing." Inuyasha said with his eyes closed.

"And that is?"

"We're together now. You and me." Inuyasha replied opening his eyes. He turned his head and looked down at Kagome.

"I know we're going to face crap when we get back. A lot of it. But I want you to promise me one thing."

Kagome looked at him, waiting. Inuyasha brought both of his up to cradle her face between them. "It's going to be hard but just trust in me and what I say. Don't let what anyone else says affect you, including Kouga, understand?"

After staring up into amber eyes for a few seconds, Kagome nodded.

"I'm here, Kags. I'm not going anywhere. Believe in me."

Kagome gave Inuyasha a tender smile. "I know... and I do."

Inuyasha nodded. He leaned down and pressed his lips to hers for a chaste but sweet kiss.

The rest of the train ride consisted of a comfortable silence as the couple drifted in and out of sleep. A few hours later the noise of a horn blowing signaled the arrival to the Tokyo train station.

Kagome awoke first. She looked around at everyone rising to get off the train and stood. Wiping the last remnants of sleep from her eyes she moved to gather their bags.

"Planning to leave me on the train without waking me, are you?" A groggy voice behind her inquired.

Kagome smiled. "How did you know?"

Inuyasha chuckled. "Oh, the ways you love me."

Kagome laughed and handed him his bag. "Come on. I'm hungry. Let's go to my place and eat some of the food your mom prepared for us."

"If your so eager to get me into your apartment alone Kagome, all you have to do is ask. You don't have to use the food as an excuse." Inuyasha playfully said as he took Kagome's hand as led her out of the train.

"Hmm... It's not an excuse. I actually do want the food right now, not you. You know what, I think I'll go home and eat all of the food by myself." Kagome replied.

Inuyasha looked back at her to make sure she was kidding, relieved to see a cute little smirk on her face. He shook his head. "Let's go."

Kagome laughed.

Forty-five minutes later the couple was outside of Kagome's apartment. Inuyasha got both of his and Kagome's bags, and Kagome held the bundle Izayoi had made them.

"You so said that when that boy stole you doll in 3rd grade." Kagome said smiling.

"No I didn't. I didn't even play with dolls as a kid." Inuyasha gruffly replied. They were talking about child-hood memories and Kagome just wouldn't let up on something that was supposedly funny.

"You did too! Don't lie. You played with me and my barbies." Kagome said, still smiling.

"They were not dolls, they were action figures!" Inuyasha snapped.

Kagome stopped walking for a second, then bust out laughing. "I told you." Kagome said in between laughs.

Inuyasha rolled his eyes on her as they finally reached her door. "Do you want to eat or not? Well, I do. So, hurry your ass up and quit playing around."

"Aww, my poor baby is embarrassed." Kagome said, snickering, stopping again to rummage in her bag for the key.

Inuyasha looked at her with an exasperated expression. But after a moment of staring at Kagome's glowing face, he smiled. "That was kind of funny, huh?"

Kagome laughed again as she took her key out and opened the door.

"G.I. Joe's aren't really dolls though." Inuyasha muttered.

Kagome smiled, "You keep telling yourself that."

"Just you wait till I get these bags down." Inuyasha said as they went through Kagome's door. When they were both inside he closed and locked the door.

"What are you..." Kagome trailed off as she turned around to look at him. Inuyasha had placed their bags on the floor near the door and was advancing toward her with a predatory look in his eyes.

"Don't. I thought we were going to eat." Kagome said, walking backwards.

"Oh, I'm going to eat. Just not food at the moment." Inuyasha replied, still walking towards her.

"Now Yash, I was only playing around. You know I was kidding. No need to retaliate. And besides, I really am hungry." Kagome said, bumping into the back of the couch.

Inuyasha stopped right in front of her, and wrapped his arms around her, leaning down. "Okay. You get off the hook this time, but next time, your mine."

Kagome swallowed.

Inuyasha chuckled. "I'll put the bags in the room and call my mom to let her know we made it back safe, and Miroku to tell him we're back. Could you heat up the food?"

Kagome let out the breath she had been holding and nodded. "Sure."

Inuyasha smiled and walked away.

A little while later, Inuyasha came out of the bedroom. Kagome was setting the table but looked up at his return. "Everything okay?" She asked.

Inuyasha nodded. "My mom is fine, and Miroku just told me that we need to be at the label company tomorrow morning."

"Okay." Kagome said.

And so, the couple sat down together and ate, talking and laughing the entire time. When the meal was done, Inuyasha helped Kagome clean up and put everything away.

"It's getting a bit late..." Kagome said from her spot cuddled next to Inuyasha on the couch. The pair had settled down to watch television after the clean-up was done.

"I could spend the night if you want me to. You know, I could protect you from evil dreams." Inuyasha said.

"And how would you do that?" Kagome asked raising an eyebrow.

"I'd hold you in my arms all night long. You know like a dream-catcher." Inuyasha said.

Kagome raised her head to look at him and started laughing at his cheesiness. "The last time I checked, dream-catchers don't hold you. They hang from your ceiling above the bed."

"Yeah, well, I'm a special dream-catcher, okay?" Inuyasha replied.

"Oh yeah, your special, I'll give you that." Kagome said, snickering.

Inuyasha laughed, rising from the couch "Fine, I'm going. But don't say I didn't warn you if you have any bad dreams tonight."

"I think I'll live. And besides, your just a phone-call away." Kagome said, rising also. She wrapped her arms around Inuyasha's waist and kissed his chin.

Inuyasha wrapped his arms around Kagome and softly kissed her fore-head. "I love you..."

"I love you too, but you still can't stay." Kagome said against his lips.

Inuyasha pouted. Kagome smiled. She leaned up and kissed him. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."

Inuyasha sighed, defeated "Fine. Sleep tight. Want me to pick you up tomorrow,so we could go together? We could grab breakfast."

Kagome smiled. "Sure."

"I'll call you." Inuyasha said as they walked towards the door together. Inuyasha grabbed his bags and looked at Kagome as she opened the door. "You sure you don't want me to stay? Last chance." He tried one last time.

Kagome shook her head with a laugh. "Go."

"Alright. I can see when I'm not wanted." Inuyasha said smirking on her door-step.

Kagome walked to Inuyasha and wrapped her arms around his neck and whispered. "I want you..."

Inuyasha gulped.

"...Just not tonight." Kagome said, smiling. She have Inuyasha a peck on the lips and stepped back. "Night."

Inuyasha narrowed his eyes at her. "That was dirty."

"I love you." Kagome said, waving at him.

"Yeah, yeah. I'll call you." Inuyasha smirked.

Kagome saluted him. "Yes, sir."

Inuyasha chuckled. He leaned in to give Kagome one last kiss. "Sweet dreams."

"You too."

Inuyasha picked up his bags and walked down the stairs, waving at Kagome. Kagome waved at him and stood on her door-stoop until Inuyasha was in his car and out of sight. She smiled with a sigh and closed her door. Today was a good day.

Unbeknownst to the happy couple though, was a black lexus parked a little away from the apartment. And in it, a certain blue-eyed wolf sat. The whole time. Kouga stared at Kagome's closed door, contemplating whether or not he should go over there and talk to her. He had found out from Miroku that Inuyasha was with Kagome and that they were coming back today, when the monk was talking to Kagome's manager. He had went over to the label to ask Sango about Kagome's whereabouts, but when he got there, Sango was already in conversation with Miroku. He left as soon as he heard what Miroku had said. He drove to Kagome's house, ignoring all of his calls that day, a rarity for him. He had been waiting for a few hours when Kagome finally showed up with Inuyasha. The two had looked like the perfect couple with the way they laughed and teased each other. Kagome had been so animated when she talked to him. She was never like that with him. And later, when Inuyasha finally left, they had kissed. Well, if he suspected something before, the proof was right there in front of him. Kouga knew how Kagome felt about Inuyasha, but he still hoped that since they were engaged and Inuyasha was still gone, that she would look to him and forget about Inuyasha. It had started to feel like she was, up until Inuyasha came back into the picture a few months ago. He tried to forget about the kiss they had shared on-stage and dismissed it as part of the performance. But this... This, he could not ignore. Not when it was so plainly written out for him. Still, maybe he could still save his relationship with Kagome. Yes, he would. After all, he hadn't stayed with Kagome for ten years only to be pushed away at the mere return of Inuyasha. With that thought in mind, Kouga pulled away from the curb. He rolled his window down and let the harsh wind blow across his face. He had promised himself that he wouldn't get hurt because of Inuyasha years ago. All those times he stayed by Kagome's side and visited her when she was down because Inuyasha had left... He promised himself that he wouldn't worry about that bastard... Yet why... Why did it feel like his heart was slowly breaking now at the sight Inuyasha and Kagome made? Perhaps it was time to finally admit defeat and let go? It took nearly ten years for Kagome to trust him to the extent that she did. Ten years to move from friends to engaged. But at the mere sight of Inuyasha, Kagome forgets all about him. Forgets about all those long ten years together. No. He would not let her go. Not after what she put him through.

Never.


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"Where is she?" Inuyasha muttered. He got his cell phone and got out of the car to lean against it. Just then Kagome came out of her apartment yawning.

"What took you so long? I've been waiting for fifteen minutes." Inuyasha said pushing away from his car to walk to her. He was wearing black jeans, and a grey t-shirt.

Kagome yawned again. "Sorry, I woke up late."

She was wearing a denim skirt that was frayed at the seams, a fitted black cotton t-shirt, and a pair of chucks. Her hair was down and she wore little make-up.

'Beautiful.' Inuyasha thought, stopping in front of her.

Kagome stretched her arms high over her head with her eyes closed for a moment then opened them a second later. She smiled. "Good morning."

Inuyasha smiled. He took that last step that separated them and wrapped his arms around her, burying his face in her neck. "Good morning."

"Mmm, your warm." Kagome softly said, bringing her own arms up to rest on Inuyasha's shoulders.

Inuyasha chuckled. "Come on sleepy-head, lets' get breakfast."

"Are we going to be late?"

"Dunno. Maybe, I don't care." Inuyasha said, opening Kagome's door for her.

Kagome got in and buckled her seat-belt, watching as Inuyasha made his way to the driver's side and do the same. "I hope they're not too mad at us for just dropping everything and leaving for a few days without telling anyone."

Inuyasha shrugged. "We were gone for just almost a week, Kags. I don't think anyone is gonna die for that."

"I guess..." Kagome said.

"Don't worry about it, Kags. Remember what you promised me?" Inuyasha asked, glancing at Kagome.

Kagome smiled. "Yeah, I remember."

"Good. Keep your promise. Now, lets' go get us some grub." Inuyasha said.

"Okay."

An hour later, the pair finally arrived at the record company.

"Ready?" Inuyasha asked from outside the meeting room.

Kagome nodded. "Ready."

Inuyasha smiled then knocked on the door, letting any occupants in the room know that they were coming in.

When they entered they found Miroku, Sango, and Myouga sitting at the big table waiting for them.

"Inuyasha! Kagome! Come in, come in, we've been expecting you two. Have a seat." Myouga said rising from his seat to greet the two artists.

"Mr. Totousai, it's good to see you again." Kagome said, smiling at the older man. She looked at Sango and gave her a reassuring smile to let her know that she was okay, while she took a seat across from her.

Inuyasha took a seat next to Kagome, and across from Miroku. "What's up Toto?"

Myouga laughed. "Well, aside from the label locating two of out best artists when they went missing, nothing Inuyasha. How about yourself?"

Inuyasha smirked. "I'm good. More than good actually."

Myouga smiled, looking from Inuyasha to Kagome and back. "I'm sure."

"We're sorry about just disappearing without a word." Kagome said looking at the smiling CEO.

"It's alright. There were no scheduled performances or anything, so it's fine. But I must tell you Kagome, that you do have an upcoming performance in a few days. So it'd be best if you prepared for that." Myouga said.

"Yes, sir."

"My dear Kagome, how many times must I tell you, call me Myouga." Myouga chuckled.

Kagome nodded.

"So Inuyasha, I've been told that you and Kagome were together on your little trip. Mind sharing what the two of you did?" Myouga asked with a smile.

Inuyasha smirked. "Just a little R&R. Nothing too big. We worked on another song too."

"Good, good. That's great to hear." Myouga said.

"Myouga-sama, didn't you want to tell them about the upcoming autograph signing?" Sango inquired from her seat.

"Oh, right, I almost forgot about that. Thank you for reminding me Sango." Myouga said, sifting through his papers until he found one in particular.

"Right. You two have an autograph signing at the Tokyo Square Record store tomorrow. Then Kagome, your performance is at club RUBY two nights after that." Myouga said looking up at the pair. "There might be a few reporters at the signing, so be prepared for a few interviews also. Everything will be provided for you both, all you have to do is show up and be ready to sign."

"That sounds fine to me." Inuyasha said, as Kagome nodded.

"Well, then. I think that is about all we had to cover today. Oh wait, I think the record store wanted to see if you guys could do a mini-performance too. How about you guys sing 'Broken' or something together?" Myouga asked.

"Sure. But maybe we could sing that song we came up with instead, 'Tight Rope'?" Inuyasha asked, looking from Myouga to Kagome. "What do you think?"

"Hmn, if you two could get into the recording studio today and get it done by tomorrow, then sure. Knock yourself out." Myouga said.

"That sounds good to me." Kagome said.

"Alight. It's settled then. Get the song recorded today, and be at the record store at 11:00 AM tomorrow. You can come here before the signing so you both can get ready with your wardrobe and make-up." Myouga said, standing.

Miroku, Sango, Inuyasha, and Kagome all stood as Myouga left the room with a smile and wave.

"So... you two wanna tell us what really went down on your little love trip?" Miroku asked with a lecherous smile.

"Feh. Like we'd tell you." Inuyasha said, leaning back into his chair.

Miroku smirked. "I take it that means that something did go down then, huh?"

"Miroku, shut up." Sango said rolling her eyes.

"Sango, my love, I was merely inquiring." Miroku said looking at Sango.

"So, you guys wanna come with us to the recording studio, or do you already have plans?" Kagome asked looking at the managers.

"Actually, we were going to..." Miroku trailed off.

"No, I don't have any plans. Going to the studio sounds like fun. We could catch up." Sango said, throwing a meaningful look to Kagome.

Kagome chuckled. "Okay." She stood up. "Let's go then."

Inuyasha stood up also. He took Kagome's hand into one of his own and started for the door. "You coming, Miro?" He threw over his shoulder.

Miroku muttered something incoherent at first, then sighed. "I suppose."

"Then quit sulking and and get moving." Inuyasha said.

"I'm coming, I'm coming." Miroku grumbled.

They all rode to the studio in their own cars except for Kagome. When they got there, they all made their way for the studio doors. Inuyasha and Kagome were walking a little ahead of Sango and Miroku. Apparently Inuyasha said something funny, because Kagome started to laugh. Sango watched the couple from behind with a neutral expression on her face as Inuyasha swung his and Kagome's hands back and forth. Kagome had a lot of explaining to do.

"So, Sango, about tonight, I was wondering if..." Miroku started.

"No."

"But Sango, you didn't even give me a chance to finish."

"Whatever it is, no." Sango said, looking straight ahead. They were almost at the studio doors. Just a few more yards...

"Listen Sango, I told you that girl the other night was an old high school friend. I don't know why you don't believe me. You can even ask Inuyasha if you want to." Miroku said, frustrated.

"Oh, I believe you." Sango said. Just a few more feet now...

"Then why are you acting so cold and indifferent like this?" Miroku challenged.

"I don't now what your talking about Miroku." Sango said. We're here.

"Yes, you do." Miroku said, gently grabbing Sango's arm so that she couldn't walk into the studio.

"Are you guys coming?" Inuyasha called from inside the studio hallway.

"Yeah." Sango called back, shaking free of Miroku's grip.

Miroku sighed. What did he have to do to make that woman see the truth? He shook his head and followed everyone into the studio.

"Ken, man, what's up? Did the label call and tell you we were coming?" Inuyasha said, shaking the producer's hand.

"Sure did, man. I heard about you guys going awol fir a little while there." Ken said with a smile.

"Who told you that?" Inuyasha said with a smile of his own.

Ken laughed and shook his head. "Hey Kagome, how are you?"

"I'm good. How are you? Any pretty new singers come in through here since I last you?" Kagome said, moving to give her friend a hug.

Ken smiled. "Only you."

Inuyasha cleared his throat, and inconspicuously reached over to the audio panel, which promptly put his body between Kagome's and Ken's.

Ken laughed, stepping back. "No worries bro, I know the deal."

"Yeah." Inuyasha said, wrapping his arm around Kagome.

Ken raised his eye-brows at that. Last he knew, Kagome was still engaged to some guy named Kouga... Hm...

"So, what can I do you for today?" Ken asked, sitting down at his chair in front of the big clear window that separated the actual recording room from the editing and controls room.

"We got a song that Kagome and I just did. And we wanted to record it so could sing it for tomorrow's signing tomorrow." Inuyasha said, sitting down with Kagome in his lap.

"Yeah, I heard about that. I hope that goes well for the both of you." Ken said, adjusting some of the knobs and buttons on the sounds board. "Okay, how about this. I'll get a guitar for you to play so I can hear the melody and you guys sing it for me before you record it. That way we can see what kind of riffs, guitars, sounds etc would go good with the song."

"Sounds good to me." Inuyasha said, idly stroking Kagome's back.

"Me too." Kagome said.

Ken rose from his seat and went into a connecting room with all kinds of instruments and came out with an acoustic guitar. He handed it to Kagome. Kagome stood up and handed the guitar to Inuyasha. The she took a seat next to Inuyasha in another chair. She looked at Sango sitting on the couch across from them and smiled.
Sango smiled back.

"Ready guys?" Ken asked.

Inuyasha strummed a few chords then looked at Kagome. Kagome nodded.

The two sang the song and a few minutes later it was done. Ken whistled. "That was sick guys. You add in some drums, background vocals, a few electric guitars, and that song will be disgusting."

Kagome laughed at his word choice. "I'll take that as a good thing."

"Hell yeah, it's a good thing. That song is the shit." Ken said smiling.

Kagome smiled.

"Okay, so Inuyasha is pretty much starting the song off and Kagome, your kind of ending it right?" Ken asked.

"Yeah," Inuyasha and Kagome said in unison.

"Alright then kids, let's get started, shall we?" Ken said looking at the two with an anticipatory glint in his eyes.

Two hours later the song was recorded and the vocals were pretty much done and they were just adding the extra sounds and everything else to the song.

"That sounds good. I like that adding vocal effect you added to the end." Kagome said.

"Yeah, me too." Inuyasha said.

"Is there gonna be a live band tomorrow?" Ken asked.

"I think so, we're not sure." Inuyasha said.

"I think a live band would sound great with this song at the performance. I could give the music and everything to the on-hand musicians at the label so that they could practice a bit before tomorrow." Ken offered.

"That would be great. Thanks a lot Ken." Kagome said.

"No problem." Ken said.

A moment later, Kagome's cell phone started ringing.

"Oh, I better get that." Kagome said rising from her chair and walking to the couch where her bag was. She flipped her phone open without looking at the caller I.D., and wished she had when she heard who was on the other line.

"Kouga... I've been meaning to call you." Kagome said, glancing at Inuyasha who had suddenly gone stiff.

"I think we need to talk, Kagome..." Kouga softly said into the phone.

"So do I..." Kagome said.

"I'm outside of the recording studio right now. Do you think you could come out for a while?" Kouga said.

"How did you know I was at the recording studio?" Kagome asked.

"I called the label and asked them where you were. They wouldn't tell me anything until I told them I was your fiance." Kouga said.

"Kouga..." Kagome trailed off.

"I'll be waiting." And with that Kouga hung up.

Kagome sighed and closed her phone. She got her jacket and stood. "I'll be back. I'm going out to get some fresh air."

Inuyasha stood and walked over to Kagome. "Do you want me to come with you?"

Kagome shook her head. "No. I think I have to deal with this by myself." When Inuyasha just continued to stare at her, she placed her hand on his cheek. "I'll be fine. I'll call you."

Inuyasha nodded after a minute and leaned down to kiss Kagome's fore-head. "I'll be here."

"I know you will." Kagome said with a smile. With a promise to also call Sango later, Kagome left.

She had just walked out of the recording studio and out the front doors when she noticed Kouga's car across the street. She let out a huge sigh and hugged her jacket to her form a bit tighter, then made her way over. When she was merely a few yards away, Kouga rolled down his windows and looked at her. Hie eyes held a world of confusion and pain. Kagome swallowed the lump that had suddenly appeared, and tried to ignore the immense guilt she felt.

"Why don't we go somewhere else to talk?" Kouga softly questioned, looking away from her now.

Kagome nodded and walked around the front of the car to the passenger side door, and got in.

The silence that followed throughout the ride was heavy in tension. When they stopped, it was in front of a little cafe a few blocks away from the studio. Kouga opened his door and got out, and Kagome followed. They went into the cafe and sat at a table near the huge bay windows against one of the walls. The aroma of many spices graced their noses, and Kagome took a deep breath, hoping that somehow the scents would calm her anxious nerves. How was she going to tell Kouga all that had happened? All that she had decided? She closed her eyes for a moment only to open them to see sapphire depths staring at her.

After what felt like forever, but in actuality was no more than two minutes Kouga looked away and broke the silence. "So... How was your trip?"

Kagome exhaled the breath she had been holding and stared down into her lap. "I'm sorry..." she whispered.

"That doesn't answer my question." Kouga sharply replied with a glare. He seemed to realize his little outburst a moment after and sighed, then took a deep breath to regain his composure.

"Look. I know the mechanics of where you were and who you were with. But what I don't know is why. Explain things to me, so that I understand why you just left with him without telling anyone, then come back not to give me a single call as to where you were. I found out where you were, but I want to know, why I had to find out through my own digging and through your label, instead of straight from you, my fiance." Kouga said, staring intently at Kagome's bowed head. He had leaned forward somewhere during his speech and had his hands flat on the table now.

"It wasn't planned..."

"Wasn't it? I mean what, it wasn't planned to just suddenly leave with him? It wasn't planned to just stay with him God knows where? Or, it wasn't planned to just go with him without telling me when I had just talked to you that day you left? For chrissakes Kagome, I'm your fiance! Me! Not Inuyasha, me." Kouga all but yelled, pointing to his chest to emphasize his point.

The other few patrons stopped to look over at the couple and Kouga sighed, taking in deep even breaths.

Kagome stared at Kouga with guilt in her heart. When it seemed Kouga had calmed down a bit, she softly spoke. "I saw a park across the street. Maybe we should talk out there."

Kouga looked up at her and nodded. The pair made their way out of the cafe and walked over to a bench in the park, across the street.

Moments passed before Kagome finally got the nerve to speak again. She turned her body to look at Kagome and sighed. His shoulders were hunched and he had his eyes downcast, away from her. She may not have been in love with Kouga, but she did care for him. A lot actually.

"I remember when I first met him when we were younger. He was so--" Kagome started.

"Oh, please, save me your little trip down memory lane, Kagome. I really, and I mean really, don't want to hear about your memories with that bastard." Kouga growled, glaring at her.

Kagome mutely nodded. "I will be forever grateful to you Kouga, for everything you've done for me. You stayed by side when I needed someone and even after, you were always there. But Inuyasha... He... I can't stop..."

"You can't stop what Kagome? Finish your sentence. You can't stop loving him, is that it? Even after all he's done to you?" Kouga spat.

Kagome could feel her eyes welling and could do nothing to stop what was coming. She could feel Kouga's pain, really she could, but she could not bring herself to ignore what she had with Inuyasha for him. She just couldn't.

"Love is never planned and it can't be helped..." Kagome softly said.

Kouga laughed. He outright laughed. "Oh, that's rich Kagome. You, preaching to me about what love is? You are so blind to what's right in front of you, that you have to go off chasing fantasies? He's not real! He's going to leave you just like he did before! Don't think he won't. And your going to throw away what we have, what we could have for some good for nothing mutt? I can't believe you. I can't believe how stupid your being." Kouga threw at her, standing up.

Kagome stood up as well, her anger building. "How dare you, Kouga. How dare you say that to me. You don't even know Inuyasha."

"What's there to know? The guy left you, you almost killed yourself over it, I stayed by your side, but the second he comes back, I'm pushed off to the side like seconds or something? Yeah, really stable stuff to make good judgments on."

"I love him." Kagome indignantly stated.

Kouga reeled back as if she had slapped him. He knew how she felt about him, but to hear her say it like that... It tore his heart. So, he whispered what he had always had in the back of his mind, even when they were together. "But you don't love me? Not the way you love him, his that it?"

All of Kagome's anger at his brash judgments dissipated and she reached out. She meant to offer an apologetic hand, but he stepped back, out of reach. "Kouga..."

Kouga sighed. "I don't think you could ever love me.

"Kouga..."

"It's just not in your heart's capacity, I guess." Kouga continued on. After a minute of just staring at each other, Kouga offered her a small smile. It was so sad and wistful that Kagome flinched.

"I don't need to hear anymore, Kagome. You got what you wanted. The wedding is off."

"Kouga, I never meant to--"

"You never meant to what? Hurt me? Well, it's a little to late for that." Kouga chuckled, but not like he was happy.

"I--"

"Don't. Please don't say another word. If you do, I might not let you go. Even if you don't love me. I might not let you go." Kouga said, turning to leave

"Kouga, wait." Kagome impulsively said.

Kouga stopped with his back to her.

"I truly am sorry."

Kouga flinched slightly then walked away to his car. Within moments he was gone.

Kagome slumped back onto the park bench. This was so not what she expected. Then again, she knew this meeting of theirs wouldn't exactly be a happy one. It was to be expected. But still. If she didn't love Kouga the way he wanted her to, then why did she feel this heart wrenching pain in her chest? Guilt? Yeah, that was it. She had to think that way, otherwise her own selfishness for love would get to her and she might just run. No, she couldn't think like that. She loved Inuyasha. She could admit that to herself now. He loved her too. She knew it. And she'd be a fool to turn her back on that love. Even if that love hurt Kouga.

Kagome shook her head. She stood up and proceeded to walk to the bus station on the curb. She didn't want to call Inuyasha just so he could pick her. And besides, she wasn't sure if she could face him right then. She had to pull herself together before she saw him. The half hour Kagome spent on the bus ride home was spent in utter silence on her part. The only noise that could be heard was the whirring of the buses engine, the sounds of traffic crawling, and the everyday music of life that people take for granted.

When the bus stopped a block away from her apartment, she got off. It was dark now. Kagome hugged her arms around herself, bringing her jacket tighter to her body and looked around. She sighed. Think positive, she told herself. Kagome began to walk her apartment a little away with her head down. At the sound of a bird flying over-head she finally looked up, only to find a certain golden-eyed, silver-haired Adonis sitting on her door step. Kagome's heart skipped a beat.

"Inuyasha?"

Inuyasha looked up at her then, and his expression tore at her. "Kagome... You didn't call me. I wasn't sure if you were alright. Then when I got to your apartment, you were still out."

"So you decided to come over and wait for me?" Kagome softly inquired, searching his expression.

Inuyasha rose from his position and picked a white bag up from beside him. "Are you okay? I brought dinner. Chinese food. You like Chinese food."

Kagome eyes watered. She didn't deserve him. She didn't deserve anyone. Not after what she did to Kouga.

Inuyasha saw her deep brown orbs begin to glisten and his eyes widened. He took a few step toward her. "Kags, what's wrong?"

Kagome shook her head, and made a dash to her door, hastily pulling her keys out from her pocket. "Nothing. Come in."

Inuyasha watched her, and let her walk past him. He knew something had happened with Kouga. Something that put major doubt in her head. He shook his head with the take-out bag in his hand, and walked through her open door. He shut and locked the door with his free hand and made his way over to the kitchen where Kagome was.

Kagome was rummaging through the cabinets. She pulled out plates, utensils, and cups and placed them on the table. "What do you want to drink?" She absently asked.

Inuyasha placed the food on the table and sat down. "So how did your meeting with Kouga go?" Inuyasha asked, ignoring her question.

"Huh? Oh that, it was fine. We just talked." Kagome said, somehow still moving around when clearly everything they needed were already on the table.

"Liar."

Kagome stopped what she was doing and looked at Inuyasha. She took a deep breath and made her way over to the table and sat down. She reached across the table to place her hand on Inuyasha's. She meant to reassure him. "We just talked. Really."

Inuyasha looked at her with indecipherable eyes then sighed. "Kagome. Kags. I know your hurting, I can tell. So, why don't you just tell me the truth and let me comfort you?"

Kagome removed her hand and leaned back in her chair. She looked down at the table setting for a few moments before speaking. "I'm fine."

"Your lying again, Kagome." Inuyasha said, temper rising. He hated her shutting him out.

Kagome sighed. "Look, let's just eat, okay? I'm tired and hungry and I really don't want to talk about Kouga right now. I'll tell you all about it later. It's just for now... I don't want to talk about it."

Inuyasha sighed. "Okay. Later."

"Thank you."

Inuyasha shook his head and began to unpack the food. When everything was out of the bag and opened, they dug in, loading their plates with a variety of Chinese food.

Kagome took a bite of her brocoli and swallowed. She looked to see Inuyasha looking down at his food as he ate. She knew it was her fault that they were eating in silence so she tried to defuse the tension. She cleared her throat. "So, how did things go at the recording studio after I left?"

Inuyasha looked up at her. He regarded her for a second before responding. "It went good. Ken and I just put a few finishing touches on the song. It'll be ready for tomorrow. Miroku and Sango had another little fight, but I think they're okay now. Well, as okay as they can be with a lecherous monk." Inuyasha chuckled, momentarily forgetting about where he really was.

Kagome watched Inuyasha laugh and smiled, grateful that the tension was forgotten. And because she would never get tired of seeing Inuyasha laugh. "That reminds, I need to call her."

Inuyasha looked at Kagome and nodded. Then he took a bite of orange chicken. The rest of the dinner went by with talk of music, where they wanted to go, the label, and so on. Comfortable stuff. Easy stuff.

Kagome was washing the dishes and Inuyasha cleared the table. She was still rinsing out the last cup when she heard Inuyasha turn the radio on.


When you love someone - you'll do anything
you'll do all the crazy things that you can't explain.
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
when you love someone.

Kagome turn the faucet off and wiped her hands on a near by dish towel. She turned to face Inuyasha and found him staring at her. He was leaning against the back of the couch with his arms crossed over his chest. He pushed off the couch and unraveled his arms, making his way over to her.


You'll deny the truth - believe a lie.
There'll be times that you'll believe you could really fly,
but your lonely nights - have just begun
when you love someone


"Dance with me." Inuyasha said, his eyes intent on Kagome. When he reached Kagome, he extended his right hand to her and gave a slight bow.

Kagome took his hand but shook her head. "Yash, you don't have to do this."

"Do what?" Inuyasha playfully asked, pulling her form tight to his own only to twirl her away and bring her back again.

Kagome laughed. "This. Make me feel better."

Inuyasha wrapped his arms tight around the goddess in front of him and shook his head slightly. Kagome wrapped her arms around Inuyasha's waist and buried her head in his chest, and they swayed for a few moments longer before Inuyasha spoke again.

"I'm not trying to make you feel better..." Inuyasha said, his head resting atop Kagome's own.

"Then what are you doing?" Kagome asked, pulling back a little to look into his eyes, his face.


When you love someone - you'll feel it deep inside
and nothin' else can ever change your mind.
When you want someone - when you need someone
when you love someone...


They stopped swaying and Kagome watched him with an expectant expression. Inuyasha kept one arm wrapped around her waist, and with the other, he brought his hand up to lightly trace Kagome's face. He traced one finger on the edge of Kagome's lips and they parted. He leaned down until his lips were a mere centimeter away from her own and softly whispered.

"I'm loving you."

Kagome looked deep into the golden eyes that were so close that they were all she could see, and felt her eyes water. Inuyasha leaned down that last centimeter and pressed his lips to hers. Kagome closed her eyes. He was so tender and sweet that Kagome actually did weep. She felt the tears slide down her face and inwardly grimaced. Traitorous tears.


When you love someone - you'll sacrifice
you'd give it everything you got and you won't think twice.
You'd risk it all - no matter what may come
when you love someone.
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
when you love someone


Inuyasha brought both of his hands up and wiped Kagome's tears away with gentle hands, not once breaking the contact between their lips. Kagome kept her hands on his waist and leaned up in an attempt to feel more of him. A few minutes after the song was done, the couple finally pulled apart slowly, almost reluctantly.

Kagome whispered against Inuyasha's lips, with her eyes still closed. "I love you, Inuyasha Takeishi."

Inuyasha smiled against her lips with his eyes still closed also. "I love you, Kagome Higurashi."

Kagome smiled and opened her eyes at the same time as Inuyasha. Inuyasha placed one last kiss on Kagome's fore-head before breaking apart. He took her hand into one of his own and led her to the bedroom. "Come on, lets' go to bed."

Kagome stopped and Inuyasha turned to look at her raised brows. He laughed. "To sleep. You said you were tired, and tonight, I want to sleep with your heart-beat next to mine."

Kagome could feel herself smiling at his words and started walking again. When they reached her bedroom, Inuyasha opened the door and led her in with her hand still in his. He released her hand when they got to the bed and started to strip. He took off his shirt and threw it onto a nearby chair. Then he took of his pants and did the same. When he was done, he was left in noting more than a pair of thin, black jersey shorts. He turned around to see Kagome staring at him with her mouth agape and smirked.

"Coming to bed, honey?" Inuyasha asked, already making himself comfortable on Kagome's queen-sized plush bed.

Kagome closed her mouth at looked at Inuyasha lying on her bed. 'When did he get there?' She shook her head and made her way over to one of her drawers. She pulled out a pair of blue pajama shorts and a white t-shirt.

"I'll be right back." Kagome threw over her shoulder, making her way to the bathroom.

"Aww, come on Kags, it's not like I haven't seen everything already." Inuyasha playfully called.

Kagome ignored him and locked the bathroom door behind her. A few minutes later, she immerged in her sleeping wear and walked over to the bed. She stood at the foot of the bed and stared at Inuyasha. He was on his back, with one arm extended and curled around his head. Kagome dimmed the lights, then pulled the covers back and got into bed. When Inuyasha didn't move she lay on her side and leaned up to kiss his cheek. "Goodnight." Kagome rolled over onto her other side, facing away from him and placed one of her arms under her head. Her eyes were just about to drift close when she felt strong arms wrap around her waist from behind.

Inuyasha had been resting his eyes when Kagome came back. She thought he had fallen asleep so he pretended he really was just to see what she would do. But when it became apparent that she was really going to sleep, he decided to wake up, so to speak. He buried his nose in the back of Kagome's neck and inhaled.

Kagome could feel his hot breath on the back of neck as he exhaled and shuddered. All thoughts of drifting to sleep gone from her mind. Inuyasha brushed his lips over the nape of her neck, not really kissing her, but caressing.

Kagome shuddered again and on some random impulse blurted out, "The wedding is off."

Inuyasha stilled for a second then relaxed. He rolled over onto his back and sighed. Kagome rolled over so that she that she was facing him and wrapped an arm around waist. She rested her head on his chest.

"Say something." Kagome said.

Inuyasha brought his arm around so that it was around Kagome's shoulders with his hand on her waist. He looked down at the head of black tresses before him and brought his hand up to idly run his finger through them. Kagome was beginning to drift off to sleep with Inuyasha's rhythmic heart-beat under her right ear, and his fingers through her hair, when he brought her left hand up to lightly brush his fingers over the ring he had given her. He traced the inscription in the front then finally spoke.

"Do you love me, Kagome?"

"You know I do." Kagome softly said.

"Do you trust me?"

"With my life."

"Then don't worry about the situation with Kouga or about anything else. I'm here." Inuyasha said, tightening his arms around her.

Kagome closed her eyes again and snuggled a bit deeper into Inuyasha's warm chest, if that was possible. But before she let sleep claim her, she whispered something. "Will you catch me if I fall, Yash?"

Inuyasha closed his eyes and leaned his head on hers. "Always..."

Kagome smiled then, but eventually the smile slipped a little as the sand man finally had his way with her. No more than a minute later did Inuyasha find her. He had finally found her in real life. And now, even in their sleep, he was with her...


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Kouga slammed the door to his condo shut, uncaring that it was late in the night. He locked the door, then walked over to the marble island in his kitchen and dropped his keys, jacket, brief-case, everything. After leaving Kagome in the park, he had gotten piss drunk at one his favorite bars. Well, not maybe piss drunk, drunk enough to numb him of the pain he felt. At least a little. He was so out of it as he opened his refrigerator to take another bottle beer out, that he didn't even notice the figure sitting in his living room, watching him.

"Where were you? I have been waiting for you in this tiny little condo for God knows how long." A woman's voice entered his thoughts.

He turned to look at who it was and frowned and who he found. "Mother, what are you doing here?"

"I already stated what I was doing, hadn't I? I was waiting for you." His mother said rising from her seat, and approaching him.

Kouga frowned harder at the older woman. "Why?" He was so not in the mood for her right now.

"I wanted to ask you about this." His mother harshly said, throwing a tabloid onto the counter-top. On the front page there was a picture of Kagome and Inuyasha at the performance they did together, with a headline that read, "Partners on-stage and off-stage, details on the duo's recent love getaway inside."

Kouga cringed and turned to put the bottle of beer away. Instead, he decided to make himself a cup of hot coffee. Yeah, that would make him feel better. Some steaming coffee with a little sugar, a little cream and...

"Kouga Ookami! What are you doing? Answer me!" His mother demanded.

The sound of his mother's booming voice brought back to reality and he sighed. "Yes, mother?"

Kouga's mother sighed in exasperation and looked down on the tabloid with disgust. "Explain this."

Kouga sighed again. He wasn't sure how his mother would take the news on the broken engagement, but he supposed it was better to tell her now, himself, instead of her reading it from some tabloid again. "The wedding is canceled."

Mrs. Ookami looked at Kouga with shock, and then fury. "You mean to tell me that this tabloid has some backing to it? That Kagome is actually fooling around with that man in the picture? That she was really with him for the whole entire week that you didn't know where she was?"

Kouga made his way over to the couch and plopped down on it. When he gave a slight nod to his mother, she made a sound of absolute anger and disgust that Kouga had to close his eyes and pretend that he wasn't there, even though he really was.

Mrs. Ookami scoffed and made her way over to her son. "I can't believe that girl. And after everything you've done for her? After everything we've done for this wedding? Unbelievable."

Kouga opened his eyes and looked at his mother sitting on the love-seat opposite of the couch. Hearing her list off exactly how he felt ignited a hot spark in his heart. "Doesn't that guy she was with, her so called partner in the label look familiar to you, mother?"

The older woman looked at him and thought about it for a little while. Silver hair, golden eyes, dog-ears... She gasped. It wasn't... "Do you mean that that man is the half-breed that used to live in your child-hood neighborhood? The one Kagome was so so depressed about when he left?"

Kouga nodded.

His mother blew a gasket. Literally. She rose so fast it didn't seem possible and began to rant and rave about how low Kagome was and how she had the nerve to do that to them. And how Inuyasha was beneath them... Pretty soon, it all just became white-noise as Kouga tuned her out. He was already hurting from his break-up with Kagome. He didn't need his mother there giving him a head-ache. God, Kagome... Ever since they were kids, she never looked his way. At least not until Inuyasha left. And even then, he knew it wasn't because she loved him. Did it matter though, if she decided to stay with him out of gratitude? No. Kouga had come to terms with the fact that he would keep Kagome however way she came. Even if she didn't really love him. The revelation on how deep his feelings for her were, and knowing that she would never feel the same, hurt. But eventually he got over it. Pathetic, maybe. It wasn't as if Kouga could control his feelings for her. It wasn't as if he could control his... love. Now... He didn't know what to do. Kagome obviously wanted to be with Inuyasha indefinitely now that he was back in her life, their little trip proved it.

'But where did that leave him?' Kouga's mind screamed. 'Pushed off to the side again?' Kouga sighed for what felt like the millionth time that day and couldn't help the lone tear that leaked out. He quickly wiped it away, hoping his mother had not seen.

Unfortunately for him, Mrs. Ookami had seen that lone tear. She was a hard woman, and a cold one to mess with. She knew this. But deep down, like any mother, she truly loved her son, and it was rare to see Kouga cry. Growing up with parents like the ones he had had hardened a child to such things. So, for him to do so now... And over that girl... Mrs. Ookami took a deep calming breath. Or at least tried to. She opened her eyes and made a vow. She may hate Kagome Higurashi right now for being a deceitful, un-loyal, ungrateful wretch. But for her son... For Kouga... She would get her back into her son's life.

And crush all who opposed or got in her way. All.


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"On behalf of Tokyo Records, we would like to request that there be no pushing or shoving of any kind as soon as we open out doors." An employee called over the excitement of the massive crowd.

"Just hurry and open the doors already! I want an autograph from my future husband!" Some girl from the mass called out.

The record store employee rolled his eyes and pushed the glass double-doors wide open. The sudden onslaught of teenagers threw him off balance and he was barely able to catch himself on a nearby shelf as they poured into the store in a rush.

Shouts of, "Inuyasha, I love you!" and "Kagome, you're so hot, marry me!" could be heard by both girls and boys as they made their way over to the two music artists.

Inuyasha gave a charming smile in the direction of the approaching fans and almost half of them swooned. He chuckled. Kagome gave a warm, welcoming smile and half the guys practically drooled. Inuyasha and Kagome were sitting down side by side at a semi-long table with pictures, videos of all their performances, posters, etc. littering the top. There was a make-shift stage behind them and to the side for them to perform on after the autograph signing was done.

Inuyasha took Kagome's hand underneath the table and gave it a gentle squeeze before releasing it and bringing his hands back on top of the table. Kagome smiled at him then got ready to sign the first thing that was put in front of her. The next 3 hours consisted of nothing but autographs, pictures, and praise for the two music artists.

The store employee who had opened the doors walked over to the couple to let them know that their mini-performance would be ready to start in fifteen minutes. "You guys can take a bathroom break or whatever until then."

Inuyasha stood up and stretched his arms high over his head and groaned. "Man, sitting in a chair for 3 whole hours really isn't good for the body."

Kagome laughed and stood also. "Eating ramen three times a day for a whole week isn't exactly healthy either."

Inuyasha looked at her and simply smirked.

By then, the record store had the mass of fans behind a red rope a few yards in front of the table they were just sitting at.

Kagome stretched a little also and picked her bottle up from the table. "I think I want to get some fresh air out back for a few minutes."

"Me too." Inuyasha said, following after her. The manager of the store had told them that there was a little outside balcony in the back that had a view of some of the city buildings and streets.

Kagome looked back at Inuyasha a few yards behind her and grinned, an idea popping into her head. She quickened her pace and dodged a display stand that was in her way.

Inuyasha cocked an eye-brow at Kagome but quickened his pace also, trying to catch up with her. He heard Kagome laugh and smiled. He loved her laugh. When he finally reached their destination, he found her sitting in one of the lounge chairs off to the side.

"I'm just gonna take a shot in the dark here, but were you by any chance trying to run away from me?" Inuyasha said, stalking towards her.

Kagome gave him her imitation of a cherub's smile and slowly nodded her head sideways. "Never, baby."

Inuyasha smirked and sat down on the side of her lounge chair. He rested his hands on either side of her head and leaned down. "Well, then what were you doing?"

Kagome smiled. She leaned up a little so that their faces were only inches away and whispered, "Close your eyes."

Inuyasha felt his eyes smolder and obeyed.

Kagome placed her hands on either side of his head and leaned up so that her lips were almost against his cheek. And then she... gave him a raspberry.

Inuyasha pulled back frowning. He wiped his cheek with the back of his hand. "Nice, Kags. Really mature. I'm sorry, how old are you again?"

Kagome laughed so hard she was gripping her sides. "I'm sorry, it was an impulse thing."

Inuyasha could feel his frown dissolve as he watched her laugh and soon, that frown turned into a smile. He leaned down so fast that Kagome didn't have enough time to think about what he was doing and silenced her laugh.

Kagome stopped breathing. He had that effect on her. When he started moving his lips against hers, she quickly got over her initial surprise and started to kiss him back.

Inuyasha pulled back and stared at Kagome's closed eyes. She slowly opened them to reveal dazed brown orbs. Inuyasha smirked.

"Kags..."

"Mm-hmm?" Kagome softly mumbled.

"Close your eyes." Inuyasha whispered.

Kagome regarded him for a moment with a suspicious eye but ignored it. Maybe he was going to kiss her again, Kagome hoped. So she did it.

Inuyasha was grinning now. He leaned down... But instead of kissing her like he knew she thought he would, he gave her a noogie.

Kagome jerked her head so fast she had a moment a vertigo before it passed. "Yash, what the hell?"

This time, it was Inuyasha's turn to laugh. He stood up and leaned against a nearby wall. "Pay-back is a bitch."

Kagome glared at him. "Is it now?" She got up from the chair and started to advance towards him with a glint in her eye.

Inuyasha stopped laughing and looked at her. "Now, honey, let's not be rash. You played a joke on me, I played a joke on you, we're even. It's done."

"I don't think so." Kagome said. A second later she launched herself at Inuyasha.

Inuyasha's eyes widened. And instead of running away from her, he put his arms out and caught her around the waist. He began tickling her and said, "Maybe your right. I like this retaliation of yours."

Kagome laughed and tried to squirm away. "Stop... Please... Sorry..."

Inuyasha shook his head and grinned. The he suddenly stopped and hugged her to him.He lifted her off the ground and spun her in a circle a few times. Kagome's laughter intensified as she gripped his shoulders to keep her from falling.

When Inuyasha thought she had enough, he slowly stopped and set her down with his hands lightly resting on her waist. "Had enough?"

Kagome looked up at Inuyasha with a small smile gracing her lips. Her cheeks were flushed and she was out of breath from laughing so much.

'I can't remember the last time I laughed so much. Or so hard for that matter,' Kagome thought.

She wrapped her arms around Inuyasha's neck and let herself drown in the deepest golden eyes she'd ever seen. "I'll never get enough of you."

Inuyasha gave her a tender smile and leaned down to kiss her.

"Me, neither." Inuyasha said as he pulled away a minute later.

The couple stared at each for a few silent seconds before suddenly laughing. The next ten minutes consisted of nothing but the couple laughing and talking together. A touch here, a touch there.

"Okay, we're ready for you guys," the record store employee said when he came out back to get them.

The couple nodded at the young man and made their way to the stage area. Half way to the stage, Inuyasha took Kagome's hand into one of his own. Kagome looked at him and he smiled at her. Inuyasha brought her hand to his mouth and laid a gentle kiss on the back of her hand. Kagome sighed. Inuyasha chuckled and released her hand as they got to the stage.

Unbeknownst to the happy couple, that a pair of sapphire eyes had been watching them the entire time. Kouga was hidden by a pillar right by the entrance to the balcony where the couple had just been. He knew Kagome had an autograph signing today at Tokyo Record store. He had called her label again to confirm it. He had just arrived when the actual signing part of the day was complete and they were setting up for the performance. He saw her walk to the back and had followed her. That is, until he saw Inuyasha slightly behind her. He stopped then, and hid behind the nearest thing he could find. He has witnessed the couple little 'break' and had to close his eyes against the images for a little. If he thought his heart was broken before, he was wrong. Now, it was broken. Gaping, actually. Kouga had thought about the engagement-break over and over again in his head last night. And he thought, that maybe, he could talk to Kagome, convince her to reconsider. But after seeing that little display of affection of theirs, he couldn't. He couldn't even approach her. Not after what he just seen take place between the two. It was so obvious who Kagome wanted to be with.

Kouga shook his head defeatedly and moved away from his hidden spot. He quickly made his way to the exit, hoping nether Kagome nor Inuyasha spotted him. The last thing he needed right now was a confrontation from Inuyasha. Later. He'd deal with him later.

If only it were as simple as dealing with a broken heart. God, how many ways could a heart really break? How many times did he have to endure Kagome's rejection?

The last thing he heard as the glass double-doors shut closed was Kagome's angelic voice ringing out, "Good afternoon, Tokyo! On behalf of Inuyasha and I we would like to..."

Her voice faded as the noisy sound of the streets and city greeted him. Kouga cringed.

"Good afternoon to me," Kouga sarcastically said.

Yeah, right.



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A.N.: Whew! Well, that was chapter 11. I hope you guys liked it. I was gonna put an extra scene in here with Kouga's mom but decided to save that for the next chapter. It wasn't planned, but I guess I took you guys into Kouga's POV quite a bit in this chapter. Remember, I am a die-hard Inu and Kag couple, but I just wanted you guys to see things from Kouga's perspective too. I mean, I feel bad for the guy, but seriously, in this chapter, I was falling in love with Yash myself! LOL. So I understand where Kagome is coming from. Especially in that one scene where Yash asked Kags to dance. *sigh* If only my guy friends were as sweet as that, hehe. Review! I promise not to take so long again. lol. And thanks to everyone who reviewed my last chapter. And to Underwater, thanks for your review, and yes, I am alive. Here's your update. lol.